Memory compatibility question

Jerald7 · 12 Jul 2013

I just recently built a new computer, installed 16GB ram (two 8GB strips)....
Crucial Ballistix 8GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model BLT8G3D1608DT1TX0

Newegg also sent me two memory strips....
Crucial Ballistix Sport 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Low Profile Desktop Memory Model BLS2K4G3D1609ES2LX0

I do have four memory slots, so I can install these as it seems these two 4GB strips are compatible, but the reviews on this memory isn't the greatest. This would give me 24GB instead of 16GB, but my question is would these 4GB strips help or hurt my performance?

My System:
Processor: Intel Core i7-4770K Haswell 3.5GHz LGA 1150 84W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics BX80646I74770K
Mobo: MSI Z87 MPOWER LGA 1150 Intel Z87 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Extreme OC Flagship High Performance Triple CFX/ SLI Platform Intel Motherboard
Power Supply: CORSAIR TX Series CMPSU-750TX 750W ATX12V v2.3 SLI Ready CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Active PFC Compatible with New 4th Gen CPU Certified Haswell Ready
Memory(16 GB): Crucial Ballistix 8GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model BLT8G3D1608DT1TX0
Case: Rosewill THOR V2 Gaming ATX Full Tower Computer Case
SSD: SAMSUNG 830 Series MZ-7PC256N/AM 2.5" 256GB SATA III MLC Internal Solid State
Hard Drive: Seagate Barracuda ST1000DM003 1TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive
Hard Drive: Western Digital Black WD2002FAEX 2TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive
DVD drive: LITE-ON 24X DVD Writer Internal 24X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 12X DVD+R DL 24X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM SATA Model ihas324-07
Monitors: (2) ASUS 27" (1) ASUS 24"
Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium

AddRAM · 12 Jul 2013

So what exactly is your question.

Will the memory work together ?

Yes it will.

Jerald7 · 12 Jul 2013

From the reviews I've read, it seems quite a few people have had problems with these. I don't want to install something that might bring problems or slow my PC down. Was wondering if anyone here has used this memory.

TVeblen · 13 Jul 2013

If there is a problem with the memory (the sticks of memory have a high defect rate) then it will not matter what combination you install. You will "have a problem with these" regardless.

Do yourself a favor and take the time to run Memtest on the RAM.
Memtest86+ - Advanced Memory Diagnostic Tool
If you are concerned, then install one stick at a time in the first RAM slot (usually marked A1) and run Memtest on it for at least 3 passes. I usually do this overnight, before bedtime.
If all 4 sticks pass the test, then install them all and run the test again. Let it run a good 5 to 7 passes for a really thorough test.

If it all passes you should be good to go.

Curious: what do you mean: "Newegg also sent me two memory strips"?
Was this a gift?

Jerald7 · 13 Jul 2013

I went ahead and installed the other 8GB. Ran memory tests, everything seems good. My only problem is that Windows 7 Home Premium only recognizes 16GB, so I need to get Windows 7 Professional before it will do me any good.

It seems Newegg had/has some kind of promo in which they give these 8GB strips if you buy certain mobo's. Other people have received them with mobo's from Newegg, at least their reviews on this memory said they did.

Thanks for the help!

LMiller7 · 13 Jul 2013

In theory any combination of compatible memory modules should work. But in the real world it doesn't always work that way. Mixing modules of different size, specifications, even different manufacturers, can cause unpredictable results.

ICIT2LOL · 14 Jul 2013

Probably shouldn't say but try asking Tradesman on the G Skill forum mate because I think Newegg have been confusing you somewhat.

Welcome to the G.SKILL TECH FORUM